Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean – and one of the hottest – making it a popular destination for sun-seekers.
Here are 10 of the most stunning beaches on Cyprus worth checking out.
About the author: Elin Davies is a part-time travel writer specialising in active and adventure travel. Head to her blog to check out highlights of a recent European cycle tour.
Cyprus enjoys a long season with beach weather possible from April till the end of November.
The southwest coast near Ayia Napa boasts the majority of white sand beaches. These can get pretty crowded in the height of summer.
Elsewhere the sand is golden with rugged coast, clear sparkling water and a few hidden gems appealing to those with a sense of adventure.
Nissi Beach

Nissi Beach is one of the most popular on Cyprus thanks to its spectacular white sand and iconic islet is connected to the mainland by double-sided beach.
Perfect for those seeking a lively vibe, Nissi Bay Beach Bar is famous for its beach parties which take place day and night. Numerous snack bars and restaurants keep beach goers refreshed.
Crystal clear waters earn the beach a Blue Flag and are shallow enough for walking across to the islet.
Nissi Beach is located on the southeast coast resort of Ayia Napa. It’s easily accessible by foot, bike and car.
Golden Beach

Golden Beach is located right at the eastern tip of Cyprus, on the long unspoilt Karpaz Peninsula. It is the biggest beach in the area and an important nesting site for sea turtles.
Soft golden sand gives the beach its name. Due to its size it feels quiet even in the height of summer. An unofficial naturist area is found on the western side of the bay.
Access by public transport is limited but there is free parking and the drive along the peninsula is spectacular (keep an eye out for Karpas donkeys).
There is one snack bar a short walk from the beach so it is worth taking your own water.
Aphrodite’s Beach

Aphrodite’s Beach is an alluring place where you’ll find the sea stack Aphrodite’s Rock, so named after the Greek goddess of love who was reputedly born from the water in this spot. It’s a popular photo stop.
The beach also boasts stunning views of the nearby cliffs and is surrounded by turquoise water.
Located on the southwest coast of Cyprus, Aphrodite’s Beach can be easily reached by car or bus from Paphos. A cafe serves delicious ice-cream near the entrance to the beach.
Swimmers take care as the sea can be a little rough (and chilly).
Fig Tree Bay

Fig Tree Bay named for the trees scattered along the coast is located on the southeast of the island.
A nearby islet provides shelter to the fine golden sand beach. Clear shallow water makes it ideal for families.
The beach is mainly organised with sunloungers available to rent. There are good facilities and a range of restaurants, bars and cafes to choose from.
The beach is also known as Protaras and easily accessible by bus from Aiya Napa.
Lara Beach

Lara Beach on the Akamas Peninsula in western Cyprus is tranquil bliss.
The beach is protected thanks to its status as a turtle nesting site so there are no sunloungers and few facilities on the beach itself. This is perfect for those looking for a quieter vibe.
Its golden sand stretches across the bay and the water is perfect for swimming.
There is one restaurant overlooking the beach so if you want refreshment while you sunbathe you will need to take it with you.
Vathia Gonia Beach

Another splendid white sand beach in the resort of Ayia Napa is the picturesque Vathia Gonia, a rocky crescent bay with pearly sands at its heart.
The shore splits at Vathi Gonia with pathways leading to the equally lovely Makronissos beach on one side and the port of Ayia Napa on the other.
Vathia Gonia is ideal for those looking for a quieter version of the lively Nissi and Makronissos beaches. There are still plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from.
Sand cover is a little thin in parts so it is worth renting a sun-lounger.
Pissouri Beach

Pissouri Beach is a striking light pebble beach on the southwest of the island between Paphos and Limassol which is surrounded by green hills, chalky cliffs, and clear blue sea.
It’s quieter than some of the organised beaches on the island but retains good facilities. There are some restaurants and bars on the road leading to the beach.
Pissouri beach can be reached by bus from Paphos but is easier if you have a car.
Zapalo Beach

Zapalo Beach (also known as Tripiti) is a hidden paradise for those with a sense of adventure.
Visitors can drive close to the beach situated in the Bay of Episkopi. After that, it’s a 1km hike down to the beach where you are rewarded with fine sand, crystal clear waters and surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
You’ll need to take your own refreshments, and sun cream down to this isolated beach. Take care on the eastern side which has rougher water.
Coral Bay

The popular resort of Coral Bay (also known as Peyia) near Paphos is a paradise for swimmers with a big bay of golden sand and calm waters sheltered by a headland at each end.
It is mostly organised but there is space to set up without a lounger. Numerous restaurants and bars keep beach-goers refreshed.
Coral Bay is one of the sandiest (and busiest) beaches on the west coast. It has a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of watersports and amenities – just watch out for big rocks in the water.
Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon is another hidden gem on the northern side of the Akamas peninsular. It can only be reached by 4×4, quad bike or by boat tour. Boat tours from Paphos and Limassol are regular. Aphrodite Trail.
Due to the size of the sandy beach this one is mainly for swimmers but views from the rocky bay make it well worth a visit even if you are not taking a dip.
There are no restaurants at the lagoon so if coming by road it is advisable to stop on route.
Read more:
Where to Stay on Cyprus: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide
10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Greece
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Image credits:
White sand on Nissi beach: © dadamira / Adobe Stock
Nissi island: © Maciej / Adobe Stock
Golden Beach: © JarosawMicha / Adobe Stock
Aphrodite: © pkazmierczak / Adobe Stock
Fig Tree Bay: © Maciej / Adobe Stock
Lara: © Alexisaj / Adobe Stock
Vathi Gonia: © Maciej / Adobe Stock
Pissouri: © Grispb / Adobe Stock
Zapalo: © dudlajzov / Adobe Stock
Coral Bay: © DedMityay / Adobe Stock
Blue Lagoon: © smspsy / Adobe Stock